Founder Profile

MARQUESSA EWING

BUSINESS

Urban Ktchn

COUNTY

Allen

FOUNDED

2022

GRANT DATE

January 2023

THE IDEA:

A fast-casual order-by-kiosk restaurant serving local flavor in Southeast Fort Wayne

Marquessa Ewing is hoping to bring her unique brand of comfort food to the southeast side of Fort Wayne. Her concept, Urban Ktchn, is a fast-casual order-by-kiosk restaurant serving local flavor in more ways than one.

Marquessa expects the restaurant will quickly become a destination for her trademark dish, chicken and fries. Though the menu is still in development, she plans to add additional items for the sake of variety but will keep the menu small.

But Urban Ktchn will be more than just a place to satisfy hungry bellies. Marquessa plans to make space for local vendors to market their products, such as stationery items, small goods, etc. She also wants it to be a welcoming place for people to gather and a safe space for kids to do homework.

Marquessa is confident that the winning combination of food, community and unique goods will draw her target customer. She’s looking to reach people aged 25-44. This group desires modern dining conveniences such as third-party delivery, self-service options, Instagram-able places and a space to socialize. Urban Ktchn will tick all of those boxes.

But why this location and why now? According to Marquessa, Southeast Fort Wayne is underinvested when it comes to food ventures. It’s largely a food desert — there are not many restaurants. Marquessa wants to change the landscape with the addition of Urban Kitchn. That will mean building the business from the ground up. However, she’s gained some initial traction from opportunities like a small business pitch competition and speaking engagements in the business community.

Looking to the more distant future, her 3-5 year vision is to possibly open another location in another city in an urban part of town to bring the same energy to other markets.